How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the dal and refrigerate it a day ahead. Add the coconut mix fresh before serving.

Can I use desiccated coconut instead?

Fresh coconut is best for flavor, but desiccated coconut can be used as a substitute; just rehydrate in warm water first.

Is it possible to make this vegan?

Substitute ghee with coconut oil for a vegan version.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently.

Aromatic Bengali Cholar Dal with Coconut and Golden Raisins

Name: Aromatic Bengali Cholar Dal with Coconut and Golden Raisins
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 1 cup chana dal; 3 cups water; 1/2 tsp turmeric powder; Salt to taste; 2 tbsp ghee; 1 tsp cumin seeds; 1 bay leaf; 2 dried red chilies; 1 inch cinnamon stick; 2 green cardamom pods; 1/3 cup grated fresh coconut; 1/4 cup golden raisins; 1/4 cup chopped cashews; 1 tbsp fresh coriander leaves; 1 tsp garam masala

A fragrant, comforting lentil dish with a sweet and savory twist.

This traditional Bengali dal is a delightful blend of spices, sweetness from coconut and raisins, and the richness of ghee, perfect for a cozy meal.

1 h 15 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Dal

1 cup chana dal

rinsed and soaked for 1 hour

3 cups water

1/2 tsp turmeric powder

Salt to taste

For the Tempering

2 tbsp ghee

1 tsp cumin seeds

1 bay leaf

2 dried red chilies

1 inch cinnamon stick

2 green cardamom pods

For the Coconut Mix

1/3 cup grated fresh coconut

1/4 cup golden raisins

1/4 cup chopped cashews

For the Garnish

1 tbsp fresh coriander leaves

chopped

1 tsp garam masala

Preparation

Preparing the Dal

Drain and place dal

Drain the soaked chana dal and place in a pot.

Add water and spices

Add water, turmeric, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to simmer, and cook until dal is tender but not mushy, about 30 minutes.

Skim froth and stir

Skim the froth off the top during cooking and stir occasionally.

Preparing the Tempered Spice Mix

Heat ghee

Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat.

Add spices

Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, red chilies, cinnamon stick, and cardamom pods. Stir until fragrant.

Do not burn the spices; this can make the dish bitter.

Set aside

Remove from heat and set aside.

Cooking Process

Simmer the Dal

Combine the cooked dal with tempered spices, and simmer for another 10 minutes to meld flavors.

Add Coconut Mix

Stir in coconut, raisins, and cashews, allowing them to heat through.

Final Touch

Sprinkle with garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander just before serving.

Plating & Serving